Reliving the Magic: Inside Kehlani’s CRASH World Tour!
CRASH Tour, Eagle Bank Arena, 9/18/24
After the release of her highly anticipated fourth studio album, CRASH, Kehlani is back on stage, igniting fans across North America with her latest tour. The North American segment features 31 cities, starting on September 6 in Chicago, IL, and concluding on November 2 in San Francisco, CA. Her performance at the Eagle Bank Arena in Fairfax, VA, on September 18, 2024, was a vivid reminder of why she is still culturally relevant in contemporary music and also affirmed why I've been a fan for over a decade.
The Concert Experience
Doors opened at 7:45 PM, and the event began promptly at 9 PM with the opening acts, leading into Kehlani's powerful two-hour show. The opening performances featured the British girl group FLO and the rising Atlanta rapper Anycia. I was truly amazed by FLO’s impressive vocal abilities and their harmonies, making me eager to explore their music further. Anycia's calm and self-assured stage presence, especially as a newcomer, also left a lasting impression.
Kehlani reignited the crowd with tracks from her new album, starting with “Next 2 U” and “GrooveTheory.” Her setlist spanned over 30 songs, effortlessly weaving in cherished favorites from her standout projects, including You Should Be Here and Blue Water Road. Notable performances included “Get Away,” a nostalgic gem from her first EP, Cloud 9, and the electrifying closer, “After Hours,” the lead single from CRASH
Though I’ve seen many artists live, this was my first live experience with Kehlani. Her ability to perform and engaging stage presence left me eager for another chance to see her in concert. The band and dancers delivered impressive sound and choreography throughout the show, enriching the entire experience. Her live vocals were just as powerful as those on the studio album, and fans would surely welcome a live album if it’s in the works. Songs performed that best showcased her vocal range included “Everything” from Blue Water Road, “Lose My Wife,” and “Sucia” from CRASH.
Standout Moments and Community Representation
One memorable highlight was her performance of “Sucia” from CRASH, where she ventured into the crowd, making direct eye contact and singing to fans as she walked along the barricade. This two-minute interaction felt particularly special, leaving those lucky enough to connect with her feeling both amazed and thrilled.
Another standout element of the tour is that Kehlani has a unique group of female dancers who are both masculine and feminine presenting. This rarity is refreshing and brings more visibility to queer women across various gender expressions. It fosters a sense of belonging and support, enhancing the inclusivity of the entire LGBTQIA community that many of her followers proudly identify with.
Kehlani is an artist who genuinely still loves the thrill of performing, and this joy is clear in her vibrant stage presence. She embraces every facet of her true self, from her sexuality to her journey through motherhood. She builds a strong bond with her audience by sharing these experiences through her music and interviews. This has consistently expanded her audience because she not only concentrates on her artistic talent but also conveys a personal narrative to her supporters. Kehlani dedicates herself to staying connected with fans, whether through social media or at live performances and pop-up events.
The Journey Ahead
In numerous interviews, Kehlani expressed that she created this album with a tour in mind. After seeing her live, it's evident that she succeeded remarkably. The CRASH World Tour showcased the vibrant energy and undeniable talent of Kehlani, making it one of the most captivating shows I've seen this year. Her ability to interlace personal stories with larger societal issues also sets her apart, ensuring that her music not only entertains but also inspires. As the tour progresses, one can only hope for a live album that captures the magic of these performances, preserving the essence of Kehlani's artistry for years to come.
Thank you LiveNationDMV for the opportunity.
Easy Listening, The Urban Music Enthusiast.